France Deploys Mine-Clearing Equipment to Strait of Hormuz

Paris. France is deploying mine-clearing military equipment in West Asia to restore safe navigation from the Strait of Hormuz, French President Emmanuel Macron has said.

Britain and France have announced that they will work with Oman to ensure safe passage through this strategically important waterway and are prepared to deploy a broad multinational mission if necessary.

In a message posted on the social media platform X, President Macron said, 'France has deployed mine-clearing equipment in the Middle East, including two 'Minehunters', two 'frigates', and a maritime patrol aircraft, which are ready to contribute with our partners to fully resume navigation in the Hormuz waterway and ensure traffic safety.'

He added that the signing of a memorandum of understanding between the United States and Iran on June 17 is a significant step towards regional stability, reaffirming freedom of navigation, especially in the Strait of Hormuz. Macron said that France has adapted its military deployment following discussions with Oman's Sultan Haitham bin Tariq Al Said. He clarified that he decided to adapt the deployment in view of favorable developments and changing needs, following constructive discussions with the Sultan of Oman.

In a joint statement issued on Friday local time, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Macron reiterated their commitment to securing navigation from the Strait of Hormuz. The statement mentioned that the Strait of Hormuz is a vital artery for the global economy, and ensuring safe passage through this strait for ships of all nations is a matter of global concern.

The statement indicated that the Sultan of Oman has agreed to work with Britain and France to secure his sovereign territorial waters for navigation. European leaders have also stated that Britain and France are prepared to deploy a broad multinational military mission to support freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz.

The statement reiterated Britain and France's shared commitment to maintaining global security, freedom of navigation, and international law, while upholding regional stability, respecting the sovereignty of all states, and maintaining close cooperation with their partners.